Sometimes known as a ‘mini J Class’ and steeped in sailing heritage, Q Class yachts were first built to the Universal Rule of Measurement in the early 1900s.  Development of the rule was led by the famous naval architect Nathanael Herreshoff and adopted by the New York Yacht Club in 1903 to determine entry criteria for the America’s Cup and to facilitate competitive racing.  At least 16 Q Class boats were built in the 1920s and 30s, some of which can be seen racing today.

Sean McMillan co-founded Spirit Yachts in 1993 with his friend Mick Newman (who sadly later died in 2007), and he went on to become renowned for Spirit’s acclaimed modern classic sail and power yachts.

When they began Spirit Yachts, Sean and Mick set out to design and build beautiful yachts in wooden from responsibly-managed sources.  That goal remains at the heart of Spirit’s ethos today.

From award-winning yachts to Bond films, royalty, and sailing successes in his own Spirit R52, Sean has a raft of accomplishments to his name.  Along with Mick, he took Spirit from its early days in an old farm building in rural Suffolk to a world leader in modern classic yacht design and build.

Hosted by Classic Boat magazine at the historic Royal Thames Yacht Club in London, the annual awards celebrate the best new yachts, restorations, and people in the classic boat world.

The Spirit C72, Gwenhyfar II, was shortlisted by a panel of judges from Classic Boat magazine, which has been the leading media title for classic boats since 1987.  It was the first magazine in the UK dedicated to traditional boats and boating.

Taking place in Guernsey in the Channel Islands, from 15^th – 22^nd June, the event is exclusively for Spirit Yachts’ owners, crew, and guests.

This year’s Spirit Yachts regatta builds on the successful platform of the inaugural regatta in Guernsey in 2022.  Hosted in partnership with Locate Guernsey and based at Guernsey Yacht Club in St Peter Port, the regatta comprises a six-race series alongside a programme of varied social events.

Spirit Yachts Managing Director Karen Underwood commented, “Our bi-annual regatta is a unique opportunity to bring together the Spirit community for a week of unforgettable sailing and socialising.  Guernsey offers some of the best sailing grounds in Northern Europe with good breeze, challenging tidal conditions, interesting courses, all against a backdrop of picturesque coastline and the surrounding islands.”

Jo Stoddart, Director at Locate Guernsey, added, “We are delighted to welcome the Spirit fleet back to Guernsey for their second owners’ regatta.  The yachts create a fantastic spectacle on the water and a real buzz on the island.  It will be a pleasure to showcase everything Guernsey has to offer.”

Continuing its expansion into new markets, Spirit Yachts has confirmed yacht sales consultant Kevin Wallis will be representing the company in Australasia.

Spirit Yachts’ Managing Director Karen Underwood commented, “Kevin is a keen sailor, who is full of enthusiasm and passion for Spirit Yachts.  His experience on the water and in yacht sales are a great fit for us and we are delighted to welcome him to the team.”

Karen continued, “Based in Palm Beach, northern Sydney, Kevin and his team are perfectly placed to extend our high standards of customer service into Australia and New Zealand.  As a company, we pride ourselves on the strong relationships we have with our owners and clients so it’s a natural next step to expand our in-person representation into key markets around the world.”

Taking place from 25th – 28th April, Palma International Boat Show sees some of the Mediterranean’s finest yachts on display to kick start the yachting season in Europe.

This year, the Spirit C72 Anima II will be welcoming visitors onboard at her berth in the Superyacht Village area of Palma’s Moll Vell marina.

Launched in 2022, Anima II is a 22m Spirit Cruising yacht designed for private and charter sailing.  Entering her second charter season after a successful first year, Anima II‘s upcoming itinerary is full of opportunities.  Whether it’s a relaxed cruise in the Mediterranean, the chance to be part of a race crew at a regatta, or watching the America’s Cup live from the water in Barcelona, Anima II is set for a fantastic season on the water.

Interested visitors wishing to view Anima II are advised to book a private appointment (see below) to avoid disappointment.